Supreme Court Questions: Is Transgender Ban Just "Different Treatment"?

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday on a case that could decide if states can ban transgender athletes from school sports teams. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson sharply questioned Idaho’s lawyer about the state’s law. She asked if the law simply treats "transgender women different than cis women." "Cis" refers to people whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. The case examines whether Idaho’s Fairness in Women’s Sports Act violates the U.S. Constitution. The law prohibits transgender girls and women from competing on female teams in public schools. Idaho argues the law protects fairness and safety in women’s sports. Opponents say it illegally discriminates based on transgender status. A ruling is expected by the end of June.